Cubs split series, ready to kick off 4th of July with a bang

As it stands the Cubs are still atop the NL Central even after their shortcomings on the road trip. Expecting to take the series in San Francisco they had a tough assignment last night in Giants starter Tim Lincecum. Unable to get much going offensively, the Cubs scored a run through 5 innings. Vying for a rally Mark Derosa smoked a pitch up in the zone off Lincecum in the 6th landing in the gap in right center for a 2-run double. He's now driven in 42 runs. Sean Gallagher in his reported last start didn't make it past the 5th. He yielded 4 runs on 4 hits and 2 walks. Lou decided to demote the young righty to the bullpen to make room in the rotation with Zambrano back.

Since leaving the Friendly Confines the Cubs have gone 2-5 yet are still 16 games over .500. I don't see their record holding up so well after the All-Star break if they continue to scuffle on the road. The good news though is Reed Johnson, Aramis Ramirez, and Big Z are back! I feel like the lineup can churn out extra runs needed to win close ball games. The 8-3 loss Thursday night didn't prevent the Cubs from getting a split against the Giants. They're looking forward to the big 4th of July epic encounter with the rival Cardinals tonight. Zambrano (8-3) is expected to give the relievers a break, going deep into the game.

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With the way Mark DeRosa has hit as of late Lou may want to put him in the no. 5 spot with Soto behind in 6th. With the Cubs catcher slumping a bit this move can help him see better pitches. I'd like for Fukudome to start showing the patience he demonstrated earlier in the season and waiting back on off-speed pitches. He's been striking out too often. The bats were be tested tonight against Braden Looper (9-5) to open the 3-game series in St. Louis. Jim Edmonds will most likely start for the Cubs and get a warm reception from the fans. With the tension between these two teams I expect more than fireworks. Bring the heat Big Z and beat those Cardinals! Go Cubs!